Linda Dianne Cowling
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Linda.
Linda was born in Saskatoon to her devoted parents, Ken and Elin Petch. She contacted polio at age two and her hospital care separated her from her family for long periods of time. When her father re-enlisted in the RCAF, she became an “air force brat”and lived with her family on various bases across Canada before settling in Victoria in 1964. She and Deryck met at Uvic and started their life together in Nanaimo after graduation.
Linda faced a lifetime of challenges with a spirit of joy and determination that endeared her to all who knew her. Everyone that she met could become “her new best friend” in an instant. As a school secretary, she endeared herself to generations of school children, their parents and teachers.
Linda is survived by her loving family: husband, Deryck; daughter, Allison (Nicholas); son, David (Karen); sister, Laureen (Blair) and her very special grandchildren: Emily, Natalie, Carter and Elliott as well as nieces and nephews: Dana, Megan (Steve), Sam (Stephanie), Geoff, Chris and Michael (Tahnee) along with their parents: Laureen and Blair Matheson, Doug and Janet Cowling, and Kate and Colin Lowe.
The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation for the special care that Linda received over the years from many talented and dedicated health care professionals including the Family Practice Clinic, NRGH and the Palliative Unit. You are amazing.
A celebration of Linda’s life will be held on Sunday, June 21st from 2 to 4pm at the Nanaimo Yacht Club, 400 Newcastle. Donations in Linda’s memory may be made to the SPCA, Canadian Diabetes Assn., PPASSBC (post polio) or a charity of your choice.